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PhD/MSc by Research Chemical Engineering

The Chemical Engineering at University of Birmingham is one of the largest departments in the UK, we have a well-established tradition of wide-ranging experimental research. From fighting antimicrobial resistance with honey to creating healthier chocolate, our research captures some of the most pressing, yet relatable, issues today.

Quick Facts

  
Duration: 1 year (Full-Time MSc by Research)
2 years (Part-Time MSc by Research)
3 years (Full-Time PhD)
6 years (Part-Time PhD)
Starting in: Anytime
Tuition Fee: £26,040 per year full-time
Location: Birmingham, United Kingdom

In order to maintain our position as one of the major centres for engineering research in Europe, we seek to recruit excellent research students to assist us in building our world-leading portfolio.

Many of our research projects involve collaboration with industrial and government organisations and the quality of our research is reflected by our rating in the Research Excellence Framework (REF). We are ranked in the top 10 for Engineering research in the UK for GPA and 4* research In the most recent assessment, (REF 2021).

The Chemical Engineering programme at University of Birmingham offers a broad range of research specialisms in Chemical Engineering, with research themes in Formulation Engineering, Energy and Healthcare Technologies.

Research Themes:

  • Formulation Engineering
    We are developing solutions to problems facing industries in the food, pharmaceutical, biotechnological, fast moving consumer goods and speciality products.
  • Energy
    Improving quality of life demands the supply of increasing amounts of energy and consumer chemicals, whilst at the same time global warming has become a major cause for concern. The Energy research theme addresses the challenges of the hydrogen economy to replace the current reliance on carbon-based fuels.
  • Healthcare Technologies
    Our experts are working together to advance new technologies and treatments that enable people to live longer, healthier and happier lives.

“The transition from undergrad to postgrad can be a big step up in terms of workload and what is expected of you, but there is so much support available to you as a postgrad student, from academic writing support (if you’ve been out of education for a few years or just want a bit of extra help) to mental health and wellbeing services. The careers support is fantastic – the uni puts on employer fairs throughout the year and you have access to one on one support from the Careers Network team, who can help you develop your skills ready for your next step!”

Emma Sutton // PhD Psychology

Career

Preparation for your career should be one of the first things you think about as you start university. Whether you have a clear idea of where your future aspirations lie or want to consider the broad range of opportunities available once you have a Birmingham degree, our Careers Network can help you achieve your goal.

Our unique careers guidance service is tailored to your academic subject area, offering a specialised team (in each of the five academic colleges) who can give you expert advice. Our team source exclusive work experience opportunities to help you stand out amongst the competition, with mentoring, global internships and placements available to you. Once you have a career in your sights, one-to-one support with CVs and job applications will help give you the edge.

If you make the most of the wide range of services you will be able to develop your career from the moment you arrive.

Requirements

  • The normal entry qualification for PhD study is either a 2:1 Honours degree in a relevant subject (eg, Chemical/Biochemical Engineering or any Physical Sciences subject) or a first degree of a lower classification, along with an MSc or evidence of substantial relevant industrial experience.
  • International students applying for this programme will need an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office before the University can issue you with a Certificate of Acceptance of Studies (CAS). We recommend that you apply for your ATAS certificate as soon as you receive an offer from us.

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